A Passion to Inspire was founded by Murray Chapman in 2009 and was set up to bridge the gap between up and coming catering and hospitality students and the hospitality industry. A Passion to Inspire has raised over £236,000 for various charities.

Teams must consist of two chefs and one front of house person. Each group will have two and a half hours during the heats to produce a two course menu including a starter, main course or dessert for four covers. Students are required to produce costings for their menu.

Following the heats, which must be completed six weeks before the final, eight teams will advance to the final, which is taking place on 23rd April 2024 at the Colchester Institute. Only one team of three can represent each college in the final.

The judges will consider:

• Flavour and balance of dishes
• Seasonality
• Timings
• Working methods
• Hygiene
• Presentation in food table and themselves (and greater questioning to their understanding of the food)
• Knowledge of the food
• Knowledge of the wine
• Service standards and confidence
• Theatre in service